Jack Thomas Ralston, 86 of Monaca, passed away on Wednesday evening, December 9, 2020 at Concordia at Villa St. Joseph.

Born in New Castle, Pennsylvania during the Great Depression, Jack was a son of the late Charles and Isabell Ralston.  He was one of five as he was joined in his family by his brothers, Sam, Joe, and Glen and his sister, Nancy.

Those that knew him could attest to his strong work ethic. He spent 30 years working as a Lehr Tender for Phoenix Glass (Anchor Hocking), Monaca.. In addition, Jack was a longtime member of the Monaca #1 Volunteer Fire Department.  He never let life slow him down, even when it was challenging, and he was determined to do everything to the best of his ability. Even after suffering a stroke while at work when he was 63, Jack remained determined to walk again even though the probability of that was unlikely. His determination amazed his healthcare team as well as his family and friends. Jack made the most of his time outside of work as well.  Much of his time was spent with his wife, Betsy, to whom he was married for 48 years.  Many good times were had at Conneaut Lake over the years, spending time on his pontoon boat and riding his golf cart. When relaxing further away from home, he loved taking cruises, and one of the things he and Betsy were most looking forward to was traveling more and also spending time in Florida during their retirement years. Jack also just enjoyed the simple things in life such as just spending time on his back porch. He attended the Monaca United Methodist Church.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two daughters, Glennie Sue Lowery and Darl Ralston, both of Virginia, two brothers, Sam of North Carolina, and Joe of Freedom, a special nephew, Chipper Johnston, and his in laws, Finley and Elizabeth Clarke.

Jack is survived by his wife of 48 years, Elizabeth “Betsy” (Clarke) Ralston, a daughter, Lois Trainer of California, a brother, Glen ( Linda) Ralston of Florida, a sister, Nancy (Bill) Bauer of Florida, a niece, Sue (Rich) Unen of Florida, a nephew, Tom Ralston of Freedom, a brother-in-law, Dick (Joann) Clarke of Monaca. Nephews,  Doug (Cathy) Clarke and Jeff (Donna) Clarke and a niece, Laurie Clarke. Special friends Kevin and Lori Smith and their daughter, Cara who had a special place in Jack’s and Betsy’s hearts.

Friends will be received on Sunday, December 13, 2020 from 1:00 pm until the time of service at 4:00 pm in the Simpson Funeral & Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca.  His pastor, the Reverend Ross Pryor will officiate.  Interment will follow in Sylvania Hills Memorial Park, Rochester.

A special thanks is extended to the staff of Beaver Meadows where Jack spent four and a half years and to the staff of Villa St Joseph where he spent his last couple months.

Please omit flowers, contributions may be made in Jack’s memory to the Monaca United Methodist Church, 813 Indiana Avenue, Monaca, PA    15061.

To share online condolences, light a memorial candle, add photos, and other information, please visit the permanent memorial at simpsonfuneralhome.com.